Santa Claus arrives to light up Mission Viejo

Jordan Replogle holds his two children, Amelia and Everett, near huge ornaments as mom snaps a picture in Santa's Village. They are enjoying the holiday event at Mission Viejo's Civic Center Sunday.

CHAS METIVIER, FOR THE REGISTER

Santa Claus arrived atop a classic fire engine on Sunday in Mission Viejo, helping launch the Christmas season in the city and light up the Civic Center courtyard.

The annual celebration, put on by the Mission Viejo Activities Committee, drew hundreds of kids who played games, listened to stories, created Christmas ornaments and watched as local dance groups performed.

Santa will spend 10 days in his workshop at the Civic Center Wednesday through Dec. 19, where along with Mrs. Claus they'll greet visitors and sit for photos. The activities committee also is planning a Holly Trolley tour on Dec. 7 and Dec. 8, that will take participants on a guided tour of the Holiday Home Lighting Contest winners.

Jordan Replogle holds his two children, Amelia and Everett, near huge ornaments as mom snaps a picture in Santa's Village. They are enjoying the holiday event at Mission Viejo's Civic Center Sunday.

CHAS METIVIER, FOR THE REGISTER
The Dickens Holiday Carolers sing at the Mission Viejo community holiday event Sunday evening.

CHAS METIVIER, FOR THE REGISTER
Paydyn Balogh, 3, meets Rudolph at the holiday event at Mission Viejo's Civic Center Sunday evening. CHAS METIVIER, FOR THE REGISTER
Joshua Dostis, 11, manages five chinups as Young Marines look on. The chinup bar tests kids' strength, and those who manage a few chinups get a candy cane for their effort.

CHAS METIVIER, FOR THE REGISTER
Sarah Balov, 5, shows her mom the craft she made, a marshmellow snowman with a cookie hat.

CHAS METIVIER, FOR THE REGISTER
Children get a ride on the kiddie train at Mission Viejo's holiday event Sunday.

CHAS METIVIER, FOR THE REGISTER
Santa arrives atop a fire engine and signals the turning on of the holiday lights at Mission Viejo's Civic Center Sunday.

CHAS METIVIER, FOR THE REGISTER
Children control model trains in Santa's Village at the Mission Viejo holiday event Sunday.

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